Bella Cherney pursued the opportunity to study studio art and art history at Accademia Italiana in Florence, Italy through the College of Business study abroad program. While living and studying in Florence for four months, she appreciated the exemplary street art that covers each miniature thoroughfare of the city-center. Each wall oozes with artistic expression and love, making this far-away city feel more like home.

By Bella Cherney

Imagine a maze of narrow streets with towering walls and no sidewalks, whilst cars, people and motorbikes all navigate the same small alleyway. That is Florence, Italy.

It’s easy to get turned around and end up in dead ends, especially with minimal street signage and alleys going every-which way. But what Florence lacks in easeful navigation, it makes up for in beautiful, expressive urban art.

As you wander Florence, you can’t help but feel the artistic spirit of the city. Not only from its Renaissance history and the art museums on every corner, but also because of the street art. Whether it is a hand painted mural or a small sketch on a street corner, art is everywhere!

“The street art in Florence helped me feel a part of a broader global humanity rooted in joy, respect, and love.”

– Bella Cherney, Design & Innovation Management major

After living there for four months, many of the pieces became a part of my daily life, used as a navigational lighthouse in the bustling city. I also began to recognize the artists by their unique styles and appreciate the different pieces around the city like sifting for gold.

Here were some of my favorite street artists’ whose pieces became a beautiful part of my daily life in Florence.

Pitu

Pitu is a Columbian-Italian, self-taught neo-expressionist street artist best known for her vibrant and colorful depictions of historic landmarks on rolling steel doors throughout the city. From Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore to David to Palazzo Vecchio, each vibrant piece pops out amongst the backdrop of urban Florence.

I first saw a Pitu piece in the Santa Croce neighborhood of Florence as I walked home from the Accademia Galleria on a sunny Saturday morning. I still remember how taken I was with the beautiful, modern use of color on historic subjects. I stopped in the street, stared, took pictures and became an instant fan. Luckily, there are an estimated 27+ murals by Pitu in Florence that I could enjoy in delight as I explored the city.

Fun Fact: I enjoyed Pitu’s art so much that I messaged her personally to purchase large scale prints of a couple of my favorite pieces to take home as souvenirs. She was very kind and I am happy to have this art to remember my study abroad experience.

Below are some photos of my favorite Pitu pieces I encountered as I wandered Florence: 

Clet Abraham

Clet Abraham is a prolific Italian street artist most known for his comical manipulation of street signs. His art brought me nothing but joy. Whether it was turning a “No Entry” sign into a scene of a man being beheaded by guillotine or turning a “No Through Road” sign into Jesus' crucifixion, these pieces made Florence feel witty, self aware, and elevated the city’s charm.

Fun Fact: You can find Clet Abraham's personal studio in the Santo Spirito neighborhood of Florence. I explored the studio and purchased stickers of some of my favorite street signs as fun souvenirs.

I couldn’t help but take photos of every new sign I saw. Here are some of my favorites:

Exit Enter

Exit Enter is an independent Tuscan artist best known for his signature motif of black and white stylized stick figures depicting themes of social commentary and human emotions. These little figures symbolize humanity, the good and the bad. As you discover them along the city streets, you can’t help but stop and appreciate the simplicity and the profound message.

Fun Fact: You can purchase reasonably priced Exit Enter pieces at the independently owned local art store, Mio Concept Store, located in the Santa Maria Novella neighborhood of Florence. I bought two Exit Enter pieces there, and I love them.

Encountering Exit Enter’s pieces felt like finding precious gems in a mountain. Here are some of my favorites:

No Tickets Required

Not only was the street art remarkable to see on a daily basis, but it was a true testament to the community support and love the Florentine people have for artistic expression. Many other cultures and communities may view this art as scandalous, illegal activity committed by criminals…but not Florence. In Florence, these artists are respected to the same degree as exhibited studio artists. This love and support made Florence feel approachable, joyous, and community centered.

Many forms of art can oftentimes be gatekept by high price points and exclusive prestige, but these artists bring their work to the common people. The mother going to work, the tourist visiting for the first time, the student on their way to class. By breaking down the monetary barriers and showcasing their art to the masses, they are letting anyone, regardless of status, appreciate this human expression.

The street art in Florence helped me feel a part of a broader global humanity rooted in joy, respect, and love.